In a striking reversal, billionaire Elon Musk has walked back his recent attacks on US President Donald Trump, tweeting on Wednesday: “I regret some of my posts about President @realDonaldTrump last week. They went too far.” The apology comes just days after Musk accused Trump of appearing in the sealed Epstein files, described his landmark legislation as “an abomination,” and even floated JD Vance as a better presidential candidate. He had also expressed support for Trump’s impeachment—before swiftly deleting the posts.The episode marks a rare climbdown for Musk, whose public persona has thrived on provocation. But whether Trump accepts the olive branch remains unclear.Trump’s initial response was dismissive yet ambiguous. Asked at a White House press conference whether he would speak to Musk, Trump said: “I haven’t really thought about it… Maybe he’s already called. You’d have to ask him. I’d have no problems with it.” The tone, while noncommittal, contrasts sharply with his past remarks, where he called Musk “a man who has lost his mind”, “a big-time drug addict,” and someone who had “gone CRAZY!” for criticising his EV mandates. Trump also warned that Musk could lose government contracts if he backed Democrats.By week’s end, the former president had offered what sounded like a final word: “Wish Elon well.” In Trumpian lexicon, it’s often a euphemism for political exile.Here are some possible reactions from Trump: 1. The Cold Shoulder: “I don’t think about Elon”Most LikelyTrump’s go-to move when crossed: pretend he’s unbothered while subtly twisting the knife. He’s already said, “Wish Elon well,” and “Maybe he’s already called.” Expect more of this “I’m too important to care” posture.“I don’t care about Elon. Never did. But he’s been very disloyal. Sad!”2. Mockery Mode: “Elon’s on drugs again”Highly LikelyHaving already branded Musk a “big-time drug addict,” Trump won’t resist the temptation to suggest the apology was ketamine-fuelled. It’s cruel, personal, and exactly his style.“Looks like Elon’s dealer cut him off—now he’s begging for forgiveness.”3. Revenge with a Smile: “He knows I’m winning”Very PossibleTrump might treat the apology as an admission of defeat. In his world, apologies = weakness. Expect a victory lap on Truth Social.“Even Elon knows who the real leader is. He wants back in. Not happening!”4. The WWE Heel Turn: “Elon’s a loser, always was”Somewhat LikelyIf Trump feels Musk is still a threat—or if Musk dares to hedge his loyalties—expect a scorched-earth takedown, complete with Tesla jabs and X mockery.“Tesla’s collapsing. Twitter’s a mess. Elon’s a fraud—always was!”5. Transactional Forgiveness: “We’ll see what he does next”Least Likely—for nowWhile Trump is transactional, this usually comes after public humiliation. Unless Musk grovels publicly or pledges fealty to Trump 2024, forgiveness remains off the table.“If he plays ball, maybe. But actions speak louder than weird tweets.”Bottom line: Trump doesn’t forgive; he negotiates. And he never lets a billionaire apology go to waste without squeezing it for attention, dominance—or revenge.
